Share The Article
While many travelers seeking peace and solitude in ‘America the Beautiful’ will surely visit Yosemite and Yellowstone, one of America’s most underrated National Parks offers unmatched hues of blue that even Crayola couldn’t replicate if they tried.
Time is ticking as there will be some unfortunate delays putting a damper on travelers’ plans come 2026, making 2025 the last year to enjoy the stunning natural wonders of Oregon’s Crater Lake National Park.
Don’t worry; despite the countdown, spring isn’t the best time to visit anyway, so don’t feel you need to jet off to Portland, Eugene, or Medford and drive down at the drop of a hat.
Summertime’s splendid warm weather make the sapphire lake so much more enjoyable for a relaxing swim or boat tour — two things you will no longer be able to do at the turn of the calendar once construction commences, shutting off the sole point of access to this otherworldly body of water.
While there’s limited time to explore Crater Lake, HomeToGo reports it’s actually one of the most affordable National Parks with cozy cabins costing an average of just $75.
Yeah, try that in Yellowstone…
Crater Lake’s Closure In 2026
Crater Lake loyalists shouldn’t go full Karen. The park is only semi-closing. That being said, some of the most enticing aspects of the park are set to be off-limits for 3 years.
Well, that is if construction goes according to plan. If Oregon is anything like my home state of California, red tape bureaucracy can extend 3 years to who knows how long.
Point being, this summer is absolutely the best time to visit. Swim in crystal-clear waters while the sun beams 70-degree days July and August, or hike or bike amongst some of the Pacific Northwest’s most astounding landscapes.
Another popular activity is booking a boat tour, which will also be put on hold next year. For now, the National Park Service recommends Explore Crater Lake, which takes passengers on a 2-hour lake cruise, or embrace Crater Lake’s top hidden gem on a 3-hour excursion of swimming, fishing, and hiking.
That would be Wizard Island, which oddly enough is home to the Witch’s Cauldron crater. It may sound straight out of Hogwarts, but it’s a real-life volcanic island offering seemingly untouched natural beauty.
To sum up Crater Lake’s 2026 closure, it goes like this:
- No legal access to the lake
- No swimming will be allowed
- No boat tours will be offered
- Some hiking, such as Cleetwood Cove Trail, will be off-limits
This is due to a major construction project set to address safety issues. It’s estimated to be complete by summer 2029.
What To Take Advantage Of In 2025
Since Crater Lake will be undergoing a glow-up for a few years at the least, you’ll want to take advantage of the National Parks scenic boat tours and swimming access the most, but don’t sleep on the parks other thrills.
While the following will not be deemed off-limits, with the expected surge of visitors this summer planning enjoy the vivid blue waters, that makes the perfect time to enjoy Crater Lake from above.
For example, Scenic Rim Drive is a must. This 33-mile route offers unmatched views of the sapphire waters and staggering mountains, which is typically open July to October before snowy conditions ruin all the fun.
There are numerous hiking and biking trails to explore, such as Discovery Point, a favorite of many park guests.
One of the most surprising aspects of Crater Lake are trolley tours, an excellent alternative to boat tours once they close, but are already up and running.
Vehicles are charged $30 for entry year-round, unless you plan to visit frequently. In that case, the $55 annual pass may suit you better.
Crater Lake’s Affordable Cabins
Given how supply and demand works, summer will surely see a rise in tourists and a spike in prices. For now, though, HomeToGo reports cabins average $75 a pop with dates ranging from April 1, 2025 – September 21, 2025.
Of course, this is based solely on HomeToGo’s own bookings, but there are obviously other sites to peruse too before making a selection, including the National Park Service.
That’s right. You can stay in a rustic lodge or cabin from May to October by booking directly through the NPS.
Just know there are only 10 cabins on-site, so if those are booked up, then of course sites such as HomeToGo, Airbnb, and local agencies will surely have you covered.
Or you can opt for Crater Lake Lodge, which has 71 rooms to choose from with sweeping lake views or scenic Rim Village, another beloved gathering spot for park visitors, which also offers insightful self-guided walking tours.
Sam Sears
Sam, our Lead Writer & Journalist based in San Diego has visited 36 countries and written over 1000 articles with a focus on sharing his own travel experiences and shining a light on lesser-known gems.
Ready For Your Trip? Check The Latest Entry Requirements For Your Destination Here
↓ Elevate Your Travel↓
Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!
️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.